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There’s no doubt that one of the most challenging parts of a wedding is budgeting for it. What kind of wedding do you want to have? Where do you want to have the wedding? And on top of that, who is going to pay for all of that?

For decades there have been so-called ‘rules’ or ‘traditions’ as to who is supposed to pay for the different parts of your wedding, and we’re here to help break down that list.

Traditionally, the bride’s family usually takes on much of the cost, and in general their responsibilities include:

Ceremony Venue- whether it’s a church, synagogue or any other location

Bride’s gown

Floral Arrangements

Reception Venue

Photographer and/or videographer

Engagement Party- sometimes groom’s parents also will host one, however it is customary that bride’s parents hold the first one

Groom’s wedding ring

Reception- this includes all costs that go along with the location like food, music, decorations, etc.

Invitations and Paper Goods- This includes save the dates, invitations, programs, menus and so on.

Bridal party transportation to and from wedding location

Photo Credit: Pinterest

As for the family of the groom, their responsibilities include:

Marriage license

Groom’s outfit

Bride’s bouquet and groom’s boutonniere

Honeymoon- Full cost

Rehearsal dinner

Bride’s wedding ring

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Today, with DIY style weddings becoming more of the norm, families are able to split the cost more evenly and even spend less altogether.

This list is by-the-book traditional and by no means is set in stone. Many couples are deciding to throw tradition out the window and are not only pitching in for their wedding but paying for it all themselves. It is entirely a family decision and making sure everyone involved with the finances feels comfortable with what they are paying is the most important.

See You Soon,Paula & Martin RamirezPaula and Martin Ramirez are the proprietors of Historic Mankin Mansion, a wedding resort just minutes from Downtown Richmond. They enjoy new restaurant finds, Virginia wines and discovering fun events and activities throughout the area for their guests.